1. Why Put-away and Storage Matter
Put-away and storage are the backbone of warehouse operations.
If inbound accuracy ensures what enters the building, put-away determines where it goes — and storage
determines how efficiently it is kept.
Common issues in SMEs include:
- mixed products in the same location
- unclear or inconsistent location codes
- poor replenishment logic
- blocked aisles
- incorrect pallet positioning
- stock that doesn’t match system records
- lack of FIFO/FEFO discipline
A well-structured put-away and storage process improves space utilization, accelerates picking, reduces errors,
and increases warehouse safety.
2. What This Audit Evaluates
This audit examines all core elements related to storage quality and put-away discipline:
- Location coding accuracy and visibility
- Rack integrity and safety compliance
- Pallet placement and alignment
- FIFO / FEFO execution
- Organization of reserve and picking zones
- Replenishment workflow
- Aisle cleanliness and accessibility
- Stock rotation and aging control
- Volume utilization and slotting quality
- Correct use of high / low locations
- Separation of hazardous, fragile, or special products
Strong storage practices reduce operating costs and picking errors dramatically.
3. How to Use This Audit
- Walk through all storage areas (reserve + picking)
- Verify random pallet locations during inspection
- Answer the checklist questions objectively
- Review the score and identify gaps
- Prioritize improvements that affect safety and accuracy
- Track progress in the next audit cycle
Storage quality should be reviewed regularly, not only during inventory counts.
4. FAQ
Why is put-away accuracy so important?
Because incorrect locations cause mis-picks, delays, and stock discrepancies.
How often should storage areas be audited?
Monthly for active warehouses, quarterly for low-turnover ones.
Should picking and storage audits be separate?
Yes — picking focuses on speed and accuracy, storage focuses on organization and safety.
What is the most common storage error?
Mixed products in the same location or unclear labels.
5. Best Practices for Put-away & Storage
✔ use clear and consistent location codes
✔ keep aisles unobstructed
✔ avoid overhanging pallets
✔ record put-away in the system immediately
✔ separate fast-moving (A) products from slow-moving (C)
✔ use a replenishment trigger (min/max or visual signal)
✔ apply FIFO/FEFO rigorously
✔ check rack condition regularly
✔ ensure labels are clean and visible
✔ maintain a logical slotting layout
These practices improve operational discipline and reduce errors.
The Put-Away & Storage Audit evaluates how products are organized, stored, and updated in the warehouse system.
It focuses on layout efficiency, labeling, housekeeping, FIFO/FEFO application, and rack conditions.
Each question is rated from 0 to 2 (Missing → Good), or marked N/A if not applicable.
Results can be exported as a JSON file and uploaded to the Warehouse Audit System Hub for consolidated reporting
Warehouse Audit — Put-Away & Storage Area
Rate each question from 0 to 2, or select N/A if not applicable. Save locally or export your JSON report for the Hub.
Notes
Once you finish this section, export your JSON report and upload it into the Warehouse Audit System Hub to consolidate all section results.
Return to Logistics Methods for more warehouse audit tools and process improvement methods.